Hugs for Horses and Healing Grant Program

Kellys Angels developed the Hugs for Horses and Healing Grant Program as a direct response to a specific tragic event affecting the local harness racing community. The organization is a nonprofit entity operating as a 501(c)(3), with a mission centered on providing emotional and experiential support to individuals facing hardship. This particular initiative was created following the June 16, 2026 barn fire at the Saratoga Casino Hotel Harness Track, which resulted in the loss of 17 horses and deeply impacted owners, trainers, caretakers, and stable staff. The program reflects the organizations commitment to addressing immediate emotional and community needs in times of crisis. The primary purpose of this grant program is to provide restorative support to individuals directly affected by the loss of horses in the fire. Rather than focusing on operational recovery or replacement of assets, the funding is explicitly intended for rest, relaxation, self care, and meaningful experiences that contribute to emotional healing. This distinguishes the program from traditional relief funding by emphasizing mental health, personal wellbeing, and community resilience. Allowable uses are therefore centered on activities or services that offer comfort and renewal, rather than business or capital expenses. Eligibility for the program is narrowly defined and tied directly to the incident. Applicants must be members of the local racing community who experienced the loss of a horse in the June 16, 2026 fire. This includes a range of roles such as owners, trainers, caretakers, and stable staff. The language indicates that horses are considered companions and family members within this community, reinforcing that eligibility is based on personal and emotional impact rather than organizational status. Because of this specificity, the program functions as a targeted relief effort rather than an open or competitive grant program. The application process is described as straightforward but confidential. Applications are accepted through the end of September 2026, with no mention of a separate pre application phase such as a letter of intent or concept paper. Submissions are reviewed confidentially, suggesting sensitivity to the personal nature of the loss and the potential emotional vulnerability of applicants. Grants are awarded based on demonstrated need and the availability of funding, indicating a discretionary review process rather than a fixed scoring rubric or competitive ranking system. Evaluation criteria are not formally outlined but can be inferred from the stated priorities. The primary consideration is need, which likely encompasses both the extent of the applicants loss and their current circumstances. Available funding is also a determining factor, meaning that award amounts and number of recipients may vary depending on total resources. There is no mention of required documentation, reporting obligations, or performance periods, reinforcing that this is a short term relief initiative rather than a structured grant with ongoing compliance requirements. The timeline for the program is clearly defined in terms of application acceptance. The opportunity is currently open and will remain so through September 30, 2026. There is no indication that the program is recurring, and it is explicitly described as a limited time grant program tied to a single event. No information is provided regarding award notification timing or disbursement schedules, though awards are expected to follow the review of submitted applications. Contact information is not explicitly listed in the provided material, but applicants are directed to apply through the organizations platform. Overall, the Hugs for Horses and Healing program represents a focused, compassionate response to a localized tragedy. By prioritizing emotional recovery and personal wellbeing, Kellys Angels positions this grant as a means of fostering healing within a tightly knit community. The program underscores the deep bond between individuals and their horses while offering tangible support during a period of grief and disruption.